U.S. patent application number 17/554175 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-23 for photovoltaic panel cable mount arrangement.
The applicant listed for this patent is PREFORMED LINE PRODUCTS CO.. Invention is credited to Darius KAUNAS, John B. MARKIEWICZ.
Application Number | 20220200514 17/554175 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006080505 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220200514 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KAUNAS; Darius ; et
al. |
June 23, 2022 |
PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL CABLE MOUNT ARRANGEMENT
Abstract
A mount system for a supporting a plurality of photovoltaic
panels includes a plurality of stanchions. Each stanchion is spaced
apart from other stanchions in a linear stanchion array having
first and second ends. Each stanchion includes a vertical member
and a transverse member supported by the vertical member. The
transverse member has a plurality of support points. The system
includes a plurality of anchor arrangements. A first anchor
arrangement is located proximate the first end and a second anchor
arrangement is located proximate the second end. The system
includes a plurality of cables. Each cable is under tension and
extends between the first and second anchor arrangements. Each
cables extends to engage and is supported by a support point on a
transverse member. The system includes a plurality of photovoltaic
panel attachments. Each photovoltaic panel attachment is secured to
a point on a photovoltaic panel and to a cable.
Inventors: |
KAUNAS; Darius; (Medina,
OH) ; MARKIEWICZ; John B.; (Mentor, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PREFORMED LINE PRODUCTS CO. |
Mayfield Village |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006080505 |
Appl. No.: |
17/554175 |
Filed: |
December 17, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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63127509 |
Dec 18, 2020 |
|
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63127525 |
Dec 18, 2020 |
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63127498 |
Dec 18, 2020 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02S 20/10 20141201 |
International
Class: |
H02S 20/10 20060101
H02S020/10 |
Claims
1. A mount system for a supporting a plurality of photovoltaic
panels above a ground, the mount system comprising: a plurality of
stanchions, each stanchion of the plurality of stanchions being
spaced apart from other stanchions of the plurality of stanchions
in a linear stanchion array having a first linear stanchion array
end and a second linear stanchion array end and with spacing
between a pair of stanchions of the plurality of stanchions
permitting multiple photovoltaic panels of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels to be located between the pair of the
stanchions, each stanchion comprising: a vertical member extending
away from the ground; and a transverse member supported by the
vertical member above the ground and extending non-parallel to an
extent of the vertical member, the transverse member having a
plurality of support points; a plurality of anchor arrangements
fixed relative to the ground, a first anchor arrangement of the
plurality of anchor arrangements being located proximate to the
first linear stanchion array end and a second anchor arrangement of
the plurality of anchor arrangements being located proximate to the
second linear stanchion array end; a plurality of cables, each
cable of the plurality of cables being under tension and extending
between the first anchor arrangement and the second anchor
arrangement, a cable of the plurality of cables extending to engage
a support point of the plurality of support points on the
transverse member of a stanchion of the plurality of stanchions and
being supported by the transverse member of the stanchion of the
plurality of stanchions; and a plurality of photovoltaic panel
attachments, a first photovoltaic panel attachment of the plurality
of photovoltaic panel attachments secured to a first photovoltaic
panel of the plurality of photovoltaic panels and secured to a
first cable of the plurality of cables and a second photovoltaic
panel attachment of the plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments
secured to the first photovoltaic panel of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels and secured to a second cable of the plurality
of cables to support the first photovoltaic panel within an array
of photovoltaic panels supported by the plurality of cables.
2. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the ground comprises
at least one of earth or a man-made structure.
3. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the ground comprises
earth.
4. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the array of
photovoltaic panels has a number rows of photovoltaic panels, and a
number of cables of the plurality of cables is equal to twice the
number of rows of photovoltaic panels in the array.
5. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein at least four
photovoltaic panel attachments of the plurality of photovoltaic
panel attachments are secured to the first photovoltaic panel.
6. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the vertical member
of each stanchion is a first vertical member, and each stanchion
comprises a second vertical member extending away from the
ground.
7. The system as set forth in claim 6, wherein the first vertical
member and the second vertical member of each stanchion have a
different height extent away from the ground.
8. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the transverse
member is sloped relative to the ground.
9. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein the transverse
member is sloped relative to the vertical member.
10. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein only the plurality
of cables extend between the stanchions.
11. A photovoltaic panel array arrangement comprising: a plurality
of photovoltaic panels; and a mount system for a supporting the
plurality of photovoltaic panels above a ground, the mount system
comprising: a plurality of stanchions, each stanchion of the
plurality of stanchions being spaced apart from other stanchions of
the plurality of stanchions in a linear stanchion array having a
first linear stanchion array end and a second linear stanchion
array end and with spacing between a pair of stanchions of the
plurality of stanchions permitting multiple photovoltaic panels of
the plurality of photovoltaic panels to be located between the pair
of the stanchions, each stanchion comprising: a vertical member
extending away from the ground; and a transverse member supported
by the vertical member above the ground and extending non-parallel
to an extent of the vertical member, the transverse member having a
plurality of support points; a plurality of anchor arrangements
fixed relative to the ground, a first anchor arrangement of the
plurality of anchor arrangements being located proximate to the
first linear stanchion array end and a second anchor arrangement of
the plurality of anchor arrangements being located proximate to the
second linear stanchion array end; a plurality of cables, each
cable of the plurality of cables being under tension and extending
between the first anchor arrangement and the second anchor
arrangement, a cable of the plurality of cables extending to engage
a support point of the plurality of support points on the
transverse member of a stanchion of the plurality of stanchions and
being supported by the transverse member of the stanchion of the
plurality of stanchions; and a plurality of photovoltaic panel
attachments, a first photovoltaic panel attachment of the plurality
of photovoltaic panel attachments secured to a first photovoltaic
panel of the plurality of photovoltaic panels and secured to a
first cable of the plurality of cables and a second photovoltaic
panel attachment of the plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments
secured to the first photovoltaic panel of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels and secured to a second cable of the plurality
of cables to support the first photovoltaic panel within an array
of photovoltaic panels supported by the plurality of cables.
12. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein the ground
comprises at least one of earth or a man-made structure.
13. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein the ground
comprises earth.
14. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein the array of
photovoltaic panels has a number rows of photovoltaic panels and a
number of cables of the plurality of cables is equal to twice the
number of rows of photovoltaic panels in the array.
15. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein at least four
photovoltaic panel attachments of the plurality of photovoltaic
panel attachments are secured to the first photovoltaic panel.
16. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein the vertical
member of each stanchion is a first vertical member, and each
stanchion comprises a second vertical member extending away from
the ground.
17. The arrangement as set forth in claim 16, wherein the first
vertical member and the second vertical member of each stanchion
have a different height extent away from the ground.
18. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein the
transverse member is sloped relative to the ground.
19. The arrangement as set forth in claim 11, wherein the
transverse member is sloped relative to the vertical member.
20. A method for a supporting a plurality of photovoltaic panels
above a ground, the method comprising: providing a plurality of
stanchions with each stanchion of the plurality of stanchions being
spaced apart from other stanchions of the plurality of stanchions
in a linear stanchion array having a first linear stanchion array
end and a second linear stanchion array end and with spacing
between a pair of stanchions of the plurality of stanchions
permitting multiple photovoltaic panels of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels to be located between the pair of the
stanchions; providing each stanchion to include a vertical member
extending away from the ground, and a transverse member supported
by the vertical member above the ground and extending non-parallel
to an extent of the vertical member, with the transverse member
having a plurality of support points; providing a plurality of
anchor arrangements fixed relative to the ground with a first
anchor arrangement of the plurality of anchor arrangements being
located proximate to the first linear stanchion array end and a
second anchor arrangement of the plurality of anchor arrangements
being located proximate to the second linear stanchion array end;
providing a plurality of cables with each cable of the plurality of
cables being under tension and extending between the first anchor
arrangement and the second anchor arrangement, and with a cable of
the plurality of cables extending to engage a support point of the
plurality of support points on the transverse member of a stanchion
of the plurality of stanchions and being supported by the
transverse member of the stanchion of the plurality of stanchions;
and providing a plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments with a
first photovoltaic panel attachment of the plurality of
photovoltaic panel attachments secured to a first photovoltaic
panel of the plurality of photovoltaic panels and secured to a
first cable of the plurality of cables and a second photovoltaic
panel attachment of the plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments
secured to the first photovoltaic panel of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels and secured to a second cable of the plurality
of cables to support the first photovoltaic panel within an array
of photovoltaic panels supported by the plurality of cables.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Benefit is claimed from U.S. Patent Application No.
63/127,498, filed Dec. 18, 2020, U.S. Patent Application No.
63/127,509, filed Dec. 18, 2020 and U.S. Patent Application No.
63/127,525, filed Dec. 18, 2020, the entire contents and
disclosures of these applications are incorporated, in entirety,
herein by reference.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure is a patent application and relates
generally to support of photovoltaic panels, and associated
structures and methods, and within a specific example relates to a
system utilizing tensioned cables.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Photovoltaic, solar panels are a good alternative source of
electrical energy. Often plural photovoltaic panels are used within
an array to provide a greater amount of overall output.
[0004] Often, plural photovoltaic panels are mounted upon a
mounting structure to provide a desired mounted orientation, space
the panels away from a ground (e.g., earth or other man-made
structure such as a building), etc. Often, such mounting structure
is made of rigid metal (e.g., aluminum or steel) constructed
pieces. Such rigid metal mounting structures may have relatively
high material costs and have high time/labor construction needs.
Accordingly, it would be beneficial to have an alternative that
mitigates such relatively high material costs and such high
time/labor construction needs.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0005] The following presents a simplified example summary in order
to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present
disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the
present disclosure. It is intended to neither identify key or
critical elements nor delineate the scope of the present
disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the
present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more
detailed description that is presented later.
[0006] In accordance with at least some aspects, the present
disclosure provides a mount system for a supporting a plurality of
photovoltaic panels above a ground. The mount system includes a
plurality of stanchions. Each stanchion of the plurality of
stanchions is spaced apart from other stanchions of the plurality
of stanchions in a linear stanchion array having a first linear
stanchion array end and a second linear stanchion array end and
with spacing between a pair of stanchions of the plurality of
stanchions permitting multiple photovoltaic panels of the plurality
of photovoltaic panels to be located between the pair of the
stanchions. Each stanchion includes a vertical member extending
away from the ground, and a transverse member supported by the
vertical member above the ground and extending non-parallel to an
extent of the vertical member. The transverse member having a
plurality of support points. The mount system includes a plurality
of anchor arrangements fixed relative to the ground. A first anchor
arrangement of the plurality of anchor arrangements is located
proximate to the first linear stanchion array end and a second
anchor arrangement of the plurality of anchor arrangements is
located proximate to the second linear stanchion array end. The
mount system includes a plurality of cables. Each cable of the
plurality of cables is under tension and extends between the first
anchor arrangement and the second anchor arrangement. A cable of
the plurality of cables extends to engage a support point of the
plurality of support points on the transverse member of a stanchion
of the plurality of stanchions and is supported by the transverse
member of the stanchion of the plurality of stanchions. The mount
system includes a plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments. A
first photovoltaic panel attachment of the plurality of
photovoltaic panel attachments is secured to a first photovoltaic
panel of the plurality of photovoltaic panels and is secured to a
first cable of the plurality of cables and a second photovoltaic
panel attachment of the plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments
secured to the first photovoltaic panel of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels and secured to a second cable of the plurality
of cables to support the first photovoltaic panel within an array
of photovoltaic panels supported by the plurality of cables.
[0007] In accordance with at least some aspects, the present
disclosure provides a photovoltaic panel array arrangement includes
a plurality of photovoltaic panels and a mount system. The mount
system supports the plurality of photovoltaic panels above a
ground. The mount system includes a plurality of stanchions. Each
stanchion of the plurality of stanchions is spaced apart from other
stanchions of the plurality of stanchions in a linear stanchion
array having a first linear stanchion array end and a second linear
stanchion array end and with spacing between a pair of stanchions
of the plurality of stanchions permitting multiple photovoltaic
panels of the plurality of photovoltaic panels to be located
between the pair of the stanchions. Each stanchion includes a
vertical member extending away from the ground, and a transverse
member supported by the vertical member above the ground and
extending non-parallel to an extent of the vertical member. The
transverse member having a plurality of support points. The mount
system includes a plurality of anchor arrangements fixed relative
to the ground. A first anchor arrangement of the plurality of
anchor arrangements is located proximate to the first linear
stanchion array end and a second anchor arrangement of the
plurality of anchor arrangements is located proximate to the second
linear stanchion array end. The mount system includes a plurality
of cables. Each cable of the plurality of cables is under tension
and extends between the first anchor arrangement and the second
anchor arrangement. A cable of the plurality of cables extends to
engage a support point of the plurality of support points on the
transverse member of a stanchion of the plurality of stanchions and
is supported by the transverse member of the stanchion of the
plurality of stanchions. The mount system includes a plurality of
photovoltaic panel attachments. A first photovoltaic panel
attachment of the plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments is
secured to a first photovoltaic panel of the plurality of
photovoltaic panels and is secured to a first cable of the
plurality of cables and a second photovoltaic panel attachment of
the plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments secured to the
first photovoltaic panel of the plurality of photovoltaic panels
and secured to a second cable of the plurality of cables to support
the first photovoltaic panel within an array of photovoltaic panels
supported by the plurality of cables.
[0008] In accordance with at least some aspects, the present
disclosure provides a method for a supporting a plurality of
photovoltaic panels above a ground. The method includes providing a
plurality of stanchions with each stanchion of the plurality of
stanchions being spaced apart from other stanchions of the
plurality of stanchions in a linear stanchion array having a first
linear stanchion array end and a second linear stanchion array end
and with spacing between a pair of stanchions of the plurality of
stanchions permitting multiple photovoltaic panels of the plurality
of photovoltaic panels to be located between the pair of the
stanchions. The method includes providing each stanchion to include
a vertical member extending away from the ground, and a transverse
member supported by the vertical member above the ground and
extending non-parallel to an extent of the vertical member, with
the transverse member having a plurality of support points. The
method includes providing a plurality of anchor arrangements fixed
relative to the ground with a first anchor arrangement of the
plurality of anchor arrangements being located proximate to the
first linear stanchion array end and a second anchor arrangement of
the plurality of anchor arrangements being located proximate to the
second linear stanchion array end. The method includes providing a
plurality of cables with each cable of the plurality of cables
being under tension and extending between the first anchor
arrangement and the second anchor arrangement, and with a cable of
the plurality of cables extending to engage a support point of the
plurality of support points on the transverse member of a stanchion
of the plurality of stanchions and being supported by the
transverse member of the stanchion of the plurality of stanchions.
The method includes providing a plurality of photovoltaic panel
attachments with a first photovoltaic panel attachment of the
plurality of photovoltaic panel attachments secured to a first
photovoltaic panel of the plurality of photovoltaic panels and
secured to a first cable of the plurality of cables and a second
photovoltaic panel attachment of the plurality of photovoltaic
panel attachments secured to the first photovoltaic panel of the
plurality of photovoltaic panels and secured to a second cable of
the plurality of cables to support the first photovoltaic panel
within an array of photovoltaic panels supported by the plurality
of cables.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] While the techniques presented herein may be embodied in
alternative forms, the particular embodiments illustrated in the
drawings are only a few examples that are supplemental of the
description provided herein. These embodiments are not to be
interpreted in a limiting manner, such as limiting the claims
appended hereto.
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example photovoltaic
panel array system in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective end view of the example photovoltaic
panel array system of FIG. 1, with some photovoltaic panels removed
at a distal end.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a reverse angle perspective view, as compared to
FIG. 2, of a portion of the example photovoltaic panel array system
as shown in FIG. 2.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view, from the distal end as
compared to FIG. 2, of a portion of the example photovoltaic panel
array system as shown in FIG. 2.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a schematic section view of a portion of another
example system, similar to the example system of FIG. 1 and in
accordance with the present disclosure, with the section for the
view extending into a portion of ground.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective, enlarged view of an example
attachment of a cable to an example stanchion transverse
member.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective, enlarged view of an example
attachment of a cable, via an example photovoltaic panel
attachment, to an example photovoltaic panel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] Subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter
with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part
hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific example
embodiments. This description is not intended as an extensive or
detailed discussion of known concepts. Details that are known
generally to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art may have
been omitted, or may be handled in summary fashion.
[0018] Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and
is not to be taken as a limitation on the disclosed subject matter.
Relative language used herein is best understood with reference to
the drawings, in which like numerals are used to identify like or
similar items. Further, in the drawings, certain features may be
shown in somewhat schematic form.
[0019] The following subject matter may be embodied in a variety of
different forms, such as methods, devices, components, and/or
systems. Accordingly, this subject matter is not intended to be
construed as limited to any illustrative embodiments set forth
herein as examples. Rather, the embodiments are provided herein
merely to be illustrative.
[0020] Provided herein are examples of a mount system for
supporting a plurality of photovoltaic panels above a ground, and
examples of a photovoltaic panel array arrangement that includes
such a mount system. Also provided herein are example methods of
providing and using such.
[0021] Within an example and in accordance with an aspect, the
present disclosure provides a mount system for a supporting a
plurality of photovoltaic panels above a ground. The system
includes a plurality of stanchions. Each of the stanchions is
spaced apart from the other of the stanchions in a linear stanchion
array having first and second linear stanchion array ends and with
the spacing between each pair of the stanchions permitting multiple
photovoltaic panels to be located between the respective pair of
the stanchions. Each stanchion includes a vertical member extending
away from the ground, and a transverse member supported by the
vertical member above the ground and extending transverse to the
extent of the vertical member. The transverse member has a
plurality of support points. The system includes a plurality of
anchor arrangements fixed relative to the ground. A first anchor
arrangement being located proximate to the first linear stanchion
array end and a second anchor arrangement being located proximate
to the second stanchions array end. The system includes a plurality
of cables. Each cable is under tension and extends between the
first anchor arrangement and the second anchor arrangement. Each of
the cables extends to engage a respective support point on the
transverse member of each of the plurality of stanchions and is
supported by the transverse member of each of the plurality of
stanchions. The system includes a plurality of photovoltaic panel
attachments. Each photovoltaic panel attachment is secured to a
point on a respective one of the photovoltaic panels and secured to
a respective one of the cables. A multiple of the photovoltaic
panel attachments are secured to each photovoltaic panel and the
multiple of the photovoltaic panel attachments are distributed to
be secured to multiple of the cables. Each respective photovoltaic
panel is retained within an array of the photovoltaic panels
extending along the cables.
[0022] Within an example and in accordance with an aspect, the
present disclosure provides a photovoltaic panel array arrangement
that includes a plurality of photovoltaic panels and the mount
system for a supporting the plurality of photovoltaic panels above
a ground.
[0023] An example photovoltaic panel array arrangement 10, in
accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, is shown
within FIG. 1. Within the shown example, the arrangement 10
includes a plurality of photovoltaic panels 12 and a mount system
14 for supporting the plurality of photovoltaic panels 12 above a
ground 16, in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0024] It is to be appreciated that the term "ground" is to be
broadly interpreted to mean earth, possibly with vegetation
thereon, and/or man-made structure(s), such as building(s),
structure(s) or the like. Various types of combinations of natural
and man-made portions are within the scope of the term "ground." As
such, the particular type of "ground" is not a limitation upon the
present disclosure.
[0025] Attention is directed to FIGS. 2 and 3, in which a portion
of the photovoltaic panels 12 is removed in order to permit viewing
of some of the other portions of the arrangement 10 and
specifically the mount system 14. As a general overview, the shown
example mount system 14 includes a plurality of stanchions 20
(easily seen within FIG. 3). Each of the stanchions 20 is spaced
apart from the other of the stanchions 20 in a linear stanchion
array 22 having first and second linear stanchion array ends 22A,
22B (easily appreciated from FIG. 1) and with the spacing between
each pair of the stanchions 20 permitting multiple photovoltaic
panels 12 to be located between the respective pair of the
stanchions 20. Each stanchion 20 includes at least one vertical
member 26 (easily seen in FIG. 3) extending away from the ground
16.
[0026] Each stanchion 20 includes a transverse member 28 supported
by the vertical member 26 above the ground 16 and extending
transverse to the extent of the vertical member 26. The transverse
member 28 has a plurality of support points 32 (easily seen in
FIGS. 3 and 4).
[0027] The system 14 includes a plurality of anchor arrangements 38
(easily seen in FIG. 1) fixed relative to the ground 16. A first
anchor arrangement 38A being located proximate to the first linear
stanchion array end 22A and a second anchor arrangement 38B being
located proximate to the second stanchions array end 22B.
[0028] The system 14 includes a plurality of cables 42. Each cable
42 is under tension and extends between the first anchor
arrangement 38A and the second anchor arrangement 38B. Each of the
cables 42 extends to engage a respective support point 32 (easily
seen in FIGS. 3 and 4) on the transverse member 28 of each of the
plurality of stanchions 20 and is supported by the transverse
member of each of the plurality of stanchions. A specific example
of the support point 32 on a respective transverse member 28 is
shown in FIG. 6, which is discussed further following.
[0029] The system 14 includes a plurality of photovoltaic panel
attachments 46 (easily seen in FIG. 3). Each photovoltaic panel
attachment 46 is secured to a point on a respective one of the
photovoltaic panels 12 and secured to a respective one of the
cables 42. A multiple of the photovoltaic panel attachments 46 are
secured to each photovoltaic panel 12 and the multiple of the
photovoltaic panel attachments 46 are distributed to be secured to
multiple of the cables 42. Each respective photovoltaic panel 12 is
retained within an array of the photovoltaic panels extending along
the cables 42. See FIG. 1 for an example array of photovoltaic
panels, and note that FIG. 1 shows the full example array as
compared to FIGS. 2-4 that have some of the array removed to more
easily see other structures. A specific example of the photovoltaic
panel attachments 46, secured to one of the photovoltaic panels 12
and secured to a respective one of the cables 42, is shown in FIG.
7, which is discussed further following.
[0030] It is to be appreciated that, within the scope of the
present disclosure, the above-mentioned structures, components,
interactions, etc. may be varied and thus need not be specific
limitation(s) upon the present disclosure. With such appreciation
and understanding, some further example specifics are presented
following.
[0031] Turning to the photovoltaic panels 12, such panels may also
be referred to as PV panels or solar panels. The photovoltaic
panels 12 convert light, and in particular sunlight, into
electrical energy. Each photovoltaic panel 12 has a polygonal
shape, such as a square or rectangle. Typically, several/many
photovoltaic panels 12 are desired to be within the array so as to
provide a desired amount of electrical energy. Within the shown
example in FIG. 1, there are forty (40) rectangular-shaped
photovoltaic panels 12. Twenty (20) are located in each of two (2)
rows. Of course, the shapes of the photovoltaic panels 12, the
number of photovoltaic panels, and/or the number of rows of
photovoltaic panels within the array may be varied. Thus, such
specific(s) need not be limitation(s) upon the present
disclosure.
[0032] Turning to the stanchions 20, within the shown example,
three (3) stanchions 20 are present. Of course, the number of
stanchions 20 may be varied. As such, the number of stanchions 20
need not be a specific limitation upon the present disclosure.
Within some examples, the number of stanchions 20 may related to
the number of photovoltaic panels 12 and/or shape/size of
photovoltaic panels 12. As mentioned, the stanchions 20 are spaced
apart within the linear stanchion array 22 with the spacing to
permit multiple photovoltaic panels 12 to be located between the
stanchions 20. Within the shown example, the photovoltaic panels 12
are grouped together in groups of ten (10), five (5) in each of the
two (2) rows of the shown example. So, within the shown example,
the stanchion spacing is associated with the groups of ten (10)
photovoltaic panels 12 therebetween/interspersed.
[0033] As mentioned, each stanchion 20 (easily seen in FIGS. 3 and
4) includes at least one vertical member 26 extending away from the
ground 16. Within one example, the stanchions 20 in general, and
thus the vertical members 26, are made of rigid metal, such as
steel and/or aluminum. Within an example, the vertical members 26
have a general "I" beam type construction. Of course, other
structural/rigid materials and/or constructions may be used, and
such variances are within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0034] Within the shown example, each stanchion 20 includes two (2)
vertical members 26 (easily seen in FIGS. 3 and 4). Within the
shown example, there is one relatively taller vertical member 26A
and is one relatively shorter vertical member 26B. Although
multiple vertical member 26 need not be required, multiple vertical
members 26 may help enhance stability. Also, it is possible that
more than two (2) vertical members 26 may be provided. Such
variances may be related to the size, number, arrangement, etc. of
photovoltaic panels 12. Of course, such variances are within the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0035] The vertical members 26, and thus the entirety of the
stanchions 20, are rigidly fixed relative to ground 16. Such rigid
fixation may be via a variety of constructions, configurations and
the like. As one example, attention is directed to the example
shown in FIGS. 1-4 (and also the example of FIG. 5) which shows
that part of the stanchions 20 may extend down into ground 16. Such
ground penetration portion may be via direct-driving into the
ground 16, helical auger-type penetration, excavation accompanied
by concrete encasement, or the like. Of course, the rigid fixation
may dependent upon the type of ground 16. If the ground 16 includes
some/all of a manmade structure, such as a building, the fixation
may be varied. Such variations are within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0036] Turning to the aspect of plural vertical members being of
different height (e.g., taller vertical member 26A and shorter
vertical member 26B, see for example FIGS. 3 and 4), such variation
in height may be associated with a desired angle orientation (e.g.,
slope) of the photovoltaic panels 12. Such may be useful to help
maximize electrical energy output from the photovoltaic panels 12,
such as via improving a face-on orientation toward the sun. Of
course, other portions of the system 14 and/or other factors may
also be utilized to obtain the desired angle orientation (e.g.,
slope) of the photovoltaic panels 12.
[0037] Each stanchion 20 includes at least the transverse member 28
(i.e., at least one transverse member 28). More than one transverse
member 28 per each stanchion 20 is possible and within the scope of
the present disclosure. The number of transverse members 28 may be
related to the size, number, arrangement, etc. of photovoltaic
panels 12. As mentioned, within one example, the transverse member
28 of each stanchion 20 is made of a rigid metal, such as steel
and/or aluminum. Within the shown example, the shown transverse
member 28 (see FIG. 4) has a "C" channel cross-section. Such may
help provide a balance of rigidness and material savings. Of
course, different materials and/or configurations are contemplated
and within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0038] The transverse member 28 may be at any desired angle (e.g.,
slope) relative to the vertical member(s) 26. Also, the transverse
member 28 may be at any desired angle (e.g., slope) relative to
ground 16. Some example angles (e.g., slopes) between the
transverse member 28 and the ground 16 may be 45.degree.,
30.degree., etc. The angular position of the transverse member 28
may be generally related to the different heights of the two
vertical members 26A, 26B. Such variation in desired angle (e.g.,
slope) of the transverse member 28 may be associated with a desired
angle (e.g., slope) orientation of the photovoltaic panels 12. Such
may be useful to help maximize electrical energy output from the
photovoltaic panels 12.
[0039] Within each example stanchion 20, the transverse member 28
is connected to the vertical members 26A, 26B. The connection may
be of a variety of constructions/configurations, and as such the
specifics of the connection need not be specific limitation upon
the present disclosure. Within the shown example, arrangements of
connector plates 54 (see FIG. 4), bolts, nuts, etc. provide the
connection. As may be appreciated for the shown example, the
transverse member 28, the vertical members 26A, 26B and the
connector plates 54 have apertures through which the bolts extend.
The nuts are tightened to fix the transverse member 28, the
vertical members 26A, 26B and the connector plates to be
fixed/rigid relative to each other. Within the example, the
connection may permit adjustment during installation. Such
adjustment ability may be provided via the use of one or more
elongate slots as the apertures through the transverse member 28,
the vertical members 26A, 26B and/or the connector plates 54.
Again, it is to be appreciated that the specifics, such as the
elongate slots, need not be specific limitations upon the present
disclosure and that variations are possible and within the scope of
the present disclosure.
[0040] Turning to the two anchor arrangements 38A, 38B (see FIGS. 1
and 2), each anchor arrangement 38, retains a respective end of
each of the cables 42. Each cable 42 being under tension between
the two anchor arrangements 38A, 38B. Also within the shown
example, each anchor arrangement 38 retains a respective end of
each of the cables 42 at a height that is commentary, e.g., same or
similar, to a height at which the respective cable is supported by
the transverse members 28 of the stanchions 20.
[0041] It is to be appreciated that the anchor arrangements 38A,
38B may have a variety of constructions/configurations and that
such variation is within the scope of the present invention. The
shown and discussed examples regarding the anchor arrangements 38A,
38B are merely examples and need not be specific limitations upon
the present disclosure.
[0042] The shown example anchor arrangements 38A, 38B each includes
a plurality of vertical supports 60, a plurality of anchor cables
62 and a plurality of anchor points 64.
[0043] Within the example, the vertical supports 60 are rigid and
made of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum). Each vertical support 60
is generally located to be aligned along an extent of one of the
cables 42 and that vertical support 60 is aligned with the
respective support points 32 of the transverse members 28 for that
particular cable. Each respective cable 42 extends toward an upper
end of the respective vertical support 60. Each respective cable 42
is connected to the upper end of the respective vertical support
60. Within some examples, the connection of the cable 42 to the
respective vertical support 60 includes one or more connector,
connection arrangements, tensioners or the like. The specifics of
the connection of the cable 42 to the respective vertical support
60 may be varied and such variations are within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0044] The vertical supports 60 are fixed relative to ground 16.
Such rigid fixation may be via a variety of constructions,
configurations and the like. As one example, attention is directed
to FIG. 2 which shows that a part of each vertical support 60 is
embedded in a concrete footer 68 that is thus considered to be part
of the ground 16. The vertical supports 60 and/or the concrete
footer 68 may extend some distance down from a surrounding surface
of the ground 16.
[0045] Each of the plurality of anchor cables 62 is made of metal
or other material of similar strength. Each of the plurality of
anchor cables 62 extends at a downward slope from a respective one
of the vertical supports 60 to a respective anchor point 64. Each
anchor cable 62 is connected to the respective anchor point 64.
Each anchor cable 62 being under tension between two anchor
arrangements 38. Each anchor cable 62 is connected to the
respective vertical support 60 and the respective anchor point 64.
With some examples, the connections for the anchor cable 62
includes one or more connectors, connection arrangements,
tensioners or the like. The specifics of the connections of the
anchor cable 62 may be varied and such variations are within the
scope of this disclosure.
[0046] Within the example, the anchor points 64 are rigid and made
of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum). The anchor points 64 are fixed
relative to ground 16. Such rigid fixation may be via a variety of
constructions, configurations and the like. As one example,
attention is directed to FIG. 2 which shows that a part of each
anchor point 64 is embedded in the concrete footer 68 that is thus
considered to be part of the ground 16. The anchor points 64 and/or
the concrete footer 68 may extend some distance down from a
surrounding surface of the ground 16. Of course, the rigid fixation
may dependent upon the type of ground 16. If the ground 16 includes
some/all of a manmade structure, such as a building, the fixation
may be varied. Such variations are within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0047] Of course, a different fixation relative to ground 16 may be
provided. As an example of such other fixation, attention is
directed to FIG. 5. Within FIG. 5, a portion of another example
arrangement 10' is a schematic shown. The section view extends into
a portion of ground 16. It is to be noted that some portions of the
arrangement 10' that may be similar to portions as described for
the arrangement 10 (FIGS. 1-4) are identified within FIG. 5 with
the same numerals, but with the addition of "'" (prime).
[0048] Focusing upon the portions that provide a different fixation
relative to ground for an anchor arrangement 38' the following is
to be noted as one example. At least one ground penetrating
structure 72 is affixed to the vertical supports 60' and extending
down into the ground 16. Such ground penetration may be via
direct-driving of a member into the ground 16, helical auger-type
penetration, excavation accompanied by concrete encasement, or the
like. Of course, the rigid fixation may dependent upon the type of
ground 16. If the ground 16 includes some/all of a manmade
structure, such as a building, the fixation may be varied. Such
variations are within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0049] Also within the example of FIG. 5, at least one ground
penetrating structure 74 is affixed to the anchor point 64' and
extending down into the ground 16. Such ground penetration may be
via direct-driving of a member into the ground 16, helical
auger-type penetration, excavation accompanied by concrete
encasement, or the like. Of course, the rigid fixation may
dependent upon the type of ground 16. If the ground 16 includes
some/all of a manmade structure, such as a building, the fixation
may be varied. Such variations are within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0050] Turning now to the cables 42 (e.g., FIGS. 1-4), such may
also be referred to as strands, or similar. The cables 42 are made
of metal or other material of similar strength. As mentioned, each
cable 42 is under tension and extends between the first anchor
arrangement 38A and the second anchor arrangement 38B. As such,
each cable extends generally in a straight line. Of course, some
minor deviation/deflection may be present. It is to be noted that
the amount of tension within each cable may be related to the
amount of deviation/deflection that may be present. Generally,
greater tension helps reduce the amount of deviation/deflection
that may be present.
[0051] The support points 32 on the transverse members 28 provide
support to and help retain the cables 42. The support points 32 may
have any of a variety of constructions/configurations and
accordingly such variety is within the scope of the present
disclosure. It is to be appreciated that some example support
points 32 may have constructions/configurations that include no or
minimal structures beyond the construction/configuration of the
overall respective transverse member 28. As a specific example of
such, a simple through hole through the transverse member 28 may be
the respective support point 32. Also, is to be appreciated that
some example support points 32 may have
constructions/configurations that include some/many structures
beyond the construction/configuration of the overall respective
transverse member 28. Still further, the locations of the support
points 32 on the respective transverse member 28 may be varied
(e.g., top side, bottom side, through the respective transverse
member 28). For this disclosure, all of such variations are simply
indicated and understood to be "on" the respective transverse
member 28.
[0052] Within the shown example, there are four support points on
the transverse member 28 of each stanchion 20 (see FIGS. 3 and 4).
FIG. 6 shows details of one example support point 32. Specifically,
the example support point 32 includes a portion of the transverse
member 28 to which an example bracket 76 is secured. The bracket 76
is made of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum) or material of similar
strength. The bracket 76 includes two flange portions 78 that are
secured, such as by bolts, screws, rivets or the like, to the
portion of the transverse member 28. A saddle portion 80 of the
bracket 76 is located between the two flange portions 78. The
saddle portion 80 is raised above the portion of the transverse
member 28 to permit the respective cable 42 to extend therethrough.
Thus, the cable 42 is trapped between the bracket 76 and the
portion of the transverse member 28. It is to be noted that within
some examples there may be structures (e.g., elongate slots) that
permit some easy adjustment(s) of the location(s) of the support
points 32 (e.g., including brackets 76) on the transverse member
28. Accordingly, such is within the present disclosure.
[0053] It is to be noted that, with the cables 42 being under
tension and with the cables 42 being supported on the transverse
members 28 of the stanchions 20, an effective and efficient
structure for supporting the photovoltaic panels 12 is
provided.
[0054] It is to be noted that the provision of the mount system 14,
which includes the cables 42, is to be considered as being
efficient in terms of cost and time investment as compared to
another mount system that does not include the use of cables (e.g.,
a mount system that only has construction using rigid components).
Within the shown example mount system 14, only cables 42 extend
between the anchor arrangements 38 and/or the stanchions 22.
[0055] Turning now to the photovoltaic panel attachments 46 (see
FIG. 3), such may have any of a variety of
constructions/configurations and accordingly such variety is within
the scope of the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that
there may be different types (e.g., different
constructions/configurations) of photovoltaic panel attachments 46
within the mount system 14. As mentioned, each photovoltaic panel
attachment 46 is secured to a point on a respective one of the
photovoltaic panels 12 and secured to a respective one of the
cables 42.
[0056] As an example of photovoltaic panel attachment 46, attention
is directed to FIG. 7. Within the shown example, the photovoltaic
panel attachment 46 includes a bracket portion 88, which is secured
to the respective photovoltaic panel 12 (e.g., at a frame or
similar of the photovoltaic panel) via a fastener (e.g., bolt and
nut, screw, rivet or the like). Also, the photovoltaic panel
attachment 46 includes a saddle portion 90 at one end of the
bracket portion 88. The respective cable 42 extends through and is
held by the saddle portion 90. Of structure(s) that permit
adjustment are contemplated and thus within the present
disclosure.
[0057] Accordingly, the photovoltaic panels 12 are held within the
array of photovoltaic panels via the mount system 14, which is
efficiently provided in terms of cost and time investment. As such,
the overall photovoltaic panel array arrangement 10 is effect and
efficient in terms of cost and time investment.
[0058] Within the shown example (FIGS. 1-4), two cables 42 are
provided for each row of photovoltaic panels 12 within the array of
photovoltaic panels. So, the number of cables 42 within an overall
arrangement 10 may be twice the number of rows of photovoltaic
panels 12 within the array of photovoltaic panels. So, within the
shown example, there are two rows of photovoltaic panels 12 within
the array of photovoltaic panels and thus there are four cables 42.
Of course, a different number of cables 42 per each row of
photovoltaic panels 12 within the array of photovoltaic panels is
contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0059] Within the shown example (FIGS. 1-4), four photovoltaic
panel attachments 46 are provided for each photovoltaic panel 12.
Two photovoltaic panel attachments 46 connect the respective
photovoltaic panel 12 to a first one of the cables 42 and a
different two photovoltaic panel attachments 46 connect the
respective photovoltaic panel 12 to a second, different one of the
cables 42. Of course, a different number of photovoltaic panel
attachments 46 per photovoltaic panel 12 is contemplated and within
the scope of the present disclosure.
[0060] Of course, methods of making the photovoltaic panel array
arrangement (e.g., 10) and/or the mount system (e.g., 14), and
portions thereof, and methods of utilizing the photovoltaic panel
array arrangement and/or the mount system, and portions thereof,
are contemplated and within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0061] The example claims following present various example
aspects. The contents of the claims are incorporated herein at into
this specification by reference.
[0062] The accompanying drawings present various example aspects.
The contents of the drawings are incorporated herein at into this
specification by reference.
[0063] Unless specified otherwise, "first," "second," and/or the
like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect,
an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as
identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For
example, a first object and a second object generally correspond to
object A and object B or two different or two identical objects or
the same object.
[0064] Moreover, "example" is used herein to mean serving as an
instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous.
As used herein, "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather
than an exclusive "or." In addition, "a" and "an" as used in this
application are generally be construed to mean "one or more" unless
specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a
singular form. Also, at least one of A and B and/or the like
generally means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent
that "includes," "having," "has," "with," and/or variants thereof
are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such
terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term
"comprising."
[0065] Although the subject matter has been described in language
specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is
to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended
claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts
described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described
above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some
of the claims.
[0066] Various operations of embodiments are provided herein. The
order in which some or all of the operations are described herein
should not be construed as to imply that these operations are
necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be
appreciated by one skilled in the art having the benefit of this
description. Further, it will be understood that not all operations
are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. Also,
it will be understood that not all operations are necessary in some
embodiments.
[0067] Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described
with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations
and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based
upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the
annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications
and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following
claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by
the above-described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.),
the terms used to describe such components are intended to
correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which
performs the specified function of the described component (e.g.,
that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally
equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, while a
particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with
respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be
combined with one or more other features of the other
implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or
particular application.
* * * * *